The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Education

Chalk Talk 11/02/2022

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(Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

A step in the right direction
Pasco County Schools thanks everyone in the community who donated shoes and socks to Pasco students, through the Two Good Soles campaign. A total of 2,821 pairs of shoes and thousands of socks were donated.

Free TEACH program
Wreaths Across America (WAA) has launched a new TEACH program that was put together by retired educator and Gold Star mother Cindy Tatum, according to a news release.

The program shares an established curriculum designed to teach the next generation about the value of their freedom, and includes stories of courage and character. It also regularly introduces new educational materials, such as recent lesson plans related to Veterans Day.

The program encompasses all grades from kindergarten through the senior year of high school.

The service-based curriculum shares educational materials from philanthropic and patriotic organizations such as The United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, the American Rosie Movement, Random Acts of Kindness Foundation, The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, and IKEducation at the Eishenhower Foundation.

Additionally, WAA developed a Veterans’ Oral History Project for youth from fourth to 12th grades that encourages young people to interview a veteran, service member, or Gold Star family member to learn about the sacrifices the military makes on behalf of our country.

The TEACH program is free to download at WreathsAcrossAmerica.org/teach and also is available for all educators and homeschoolers on Teachers Pay Teachers.

Recycle your pumpkins
Learning Gate Community School’s environmental science teacher Steve Warrener’s classes have just started an adopt-a-farm program with Happy Farm, 16610 Tobacco Road in Lutz, for composting.

The public can drop off their pumpkins anytime from Nov. 1 to Nov. 15 in the bins at the farm (signs will be posted). Pumpkins must not be treated with any preservatives.

Warrener also can do bulk pickup if anyone is interested.

For more information, email .

Culinary Arts bake sale
The Land O’ Lakes Academy of Culinary Arts is offering its 11th annual Fall Bake Sale.

Items up for grabs include: Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, $10; French Silk Pie, $12; Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll, $10; Kentucky Pecan Pie, $15; Vegan + GF Apple Cranberry Crisp, $14; and Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies, $10.

Order deadline is Nov. 4. Pickup is Nov. 16, Nov. 17 and Nov. 18 in the Lakeview Café.

For information and questions, email Chef Blythe at or Chef Cooper at .

Fall Heritage Festival
Moore-Mickens Education and Vocational Center, 38301 Martin Luther King Blvd., in Dade City, will host its third annual Fall Heritage Festival on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event will include food, live music, vendors, artists, and Buffalo Soldiers. Admission is $7; $25 VIP seating (with an RSVP). For information, call 352-518-8008.

50th Anniversary
Pasco-Hernando State College will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a free commmunity West Campus Anniversary Celebration, at 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey. Activities will include games and prizes, music, refreshments, and tours of the campus (fees for new student applications will be waived during the event.)

To learn more, visit PHSC.edu/history.

Afterschool Meals Program
Pasco County Schools has announced the approval of 51 schools for participation in the Afterschool Meals Program, a subcomponent of the Child Care Food Program.

Afterschool Meals is designed to provide nutritious food to children participating in afterschool programs on campus. Approved schools hosting these activities (including PLACE) after school hours will have the ability to provide meals.

These schools in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area have been approved to participate in the program: • Elementary schools: Centennial, Chester Taylor, Lacoochee, New River, Pasco, Quail Hollow, R.B. Cox, San Antonio, West Zephyrhills, and Woodland

  • Middle high schools: Centennial, East Pasco Education Academy, Pasco, R.B. Stewart
  • High schools: East Pasco Education Academy, Pasco, Zephyrhills

Parents should contact the coordinator of the program their child is participating in, to determine if meals will be provided.

A meaningful conversation
The Saint Leo University Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies (CCJS) will present “Why Dialogue Matters” on Nov. 10 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Congregation Schaarai Zedek, 3303 W. Swann Ave., in Tampa.

This conversation will focus on why the practice of dialogue is essential for the health of traditions, institutions and society.

Guest speakers will be Rabbi David Maayan, Cohn visiting chair in Jewish Thought and assistant director of CCJS, and Dr. Matthew Tapie, associate professor of theology and director of CCJS.

Joining in the panel wil be Friar Henry Fulmer, Sacred Heart Catholic Church; Rabbi Rachel Blatt, Congregation Kol Ami; and Rabbi Joel Simon, Congregation Schaarai Zedek.

Prior to the event, an hors d’oeuvre reception will take place at 6:15 p.m. An RSVP is required online at SaintLeo.edu/Why-Dialogue-Matters.

The program will conclude with a presentation of the 18th Eternal Light Award to Dr. Eugene Fisher for his 50 years of contributions to Catholic-Jewish relations.

Admission is free. For information, email , or call 352-588-7298.

School Choice events
Mark your calendar with the following dates related to School Choice in Pasco County:

  • Nov. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Pasco Pathways Expo, at River Ridge High School
  • Nov. 17 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Pasco Pathways Expo, at Wesley Chapel High School
  • Jan. 9 to Jan. 20: Pasco Pathways Application Window
  • Feb. 27 to March 8: Notification and Acceptance Window

For more information, visit Pasco.k12.fl.us/schoolchoice.

Playground fundraiser
Odessa Elementary School will host a golf tournament at Cheval Golf Club, at 4312 Cheval Blvd., in Lutz, on Nov. 13. Money raised from the event will go toward expanding and improving the school’s playground, by adding structures for all ages and abilities.

Cost is $150 per person and $550 per foursome. It will be a 9 a.m. scramble start and includes contests such as a $10,000 hole-in-one chance, on-course refreshments, lunch, gifts and more.

For information or to register, visit bit.ly/wildcat-golf.

JoAnne Glenn will lead Angeline Academy of Innovation

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Pasco County Schools has named JoAnne Glenn to be the first principal at Angeline Academy of Innovation, a new 6-12 magnet school being built in an emerging community in Central Pasco.

Glenn, principal of Pasco eSchool and Angeline Academy of Innovation, has won both district and national honors for her work.

Glenn was named Pasco County Schools’ Principal of the Year in 2019 and was named the 2020 Digital Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals.

JoAnne Glenn has been named the inaugural principal of Angeline Academy of Innovation, a 6-12 magnet school set to open in Pasco County in August 2023. (Courtesy of JoAnne Glenn)

The new 6-12 school will be near Moffitt Cancer Center’s planned Pasco County campus, which is in the heart of Angeline, east of the Suncoast Parkway and south of State Road 52.

The $52.7-million magnet school is expected to have strong partnerships with both Moffitt and with Pasco-Hernando State College.

In an email to The Laker/Lutz News, she explained her interest in the new position and expressed enthusiasm for what the new school will offer students.

As a mathematics teacher “and self-admitted nerd,” Glenn said, “I love helping students become confident in exploring and strengthening their understanding of these topics.”

She believes that “children are born to be scientists, and they learn through exploration and experience.”

She also noted that she’s worked for the last 14 years to build the district’s virtual school and to challenge the status quo of more traditional education models.

“Having the opportunity to build a school that incorporates hybrid experiences and strong partnerships with families and our community brings all of my favorite aspects of education into one school,” Glenn said.

She’s excited about the potential offered by Angeline Academy of Innovation, which is set to open in August 2023.

“Angeline Academy of Innovation is on a mission to challenge the ways we use time and space to offer students more agency and control over their path and pace for chasing their dreams,” Glenn said.

“Because Pasco eSchool will also be housed at Angeline Academy of Innovation, students will have a continuum of learning experiences and can move between on-campus, job-embedded, and online learning experiences supported by a cadre of educators and professionals with high levels of expertise,” Glenn said.

She’s also enthused about new opportunities that will be presented to students.

“I’m excited about some of the early commitments to establish strong partnerships with local businesses, a successful local charter school, and postsecondary institutions. Our students will learn alongside engineers, IT professionals, scientists, medical professionals, and more. With access to world-class facilities, and a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, Angeline Academy of Innovation will allow students an environment that is designed to launch secondary students into relevant career fields, equipped with certifications and expertise,” she said.

As an example, the school will offer engineering, cybersecurity, biodesign, and an entrepreneurship incubator, Glenn said.

As Glenn moves into her new post, the school district is searching for a new principal to lead Pasco eSchool.

Published October 26, 2022

Chalk Talk 10/26/2022

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(Courtesy of PHSC Foundation)

Foundation receives $3,000 donation
The GHC Ladies Auxiliary presented a $3,000 donation to the PHSC (Pasco-Hernando State College) Foundation for its student scholarships. The auxiliary hosts fundraisers throughout the year in support of various initiatives and organizations in the community. To make a scholarship donation, visit Giving.PHSC.edu, or call the foundation office at 727-816-3410.

Zephyrhills High reunion
The Zephyrhills High School Class of 1972 will host its 50th reunion, including:

  • Homecoming Game on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m.
  • “A Night to Remember” dinner/dance on Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the Scotland Yards Clubhouse, 9429 U.S. 301 in Dade City — $45 per person
  • Sunday Brunch, on Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a “Memory Lane Stroll” down iconic Fifth Avenue

For more information, call the school at 813-794-6100.

Recycle your pumpkins
Learning Gate Community School’s environmental science teacher Steve Warrener’s classes have just started an adopt-a-farm program with Happy Farm, 16610 Tobacco Road in Lutz, for composting.

The public can drop off their pumpkins anytime from Nov. 1 to Nov. 15 in the bins at the farm (signs will be posted). Pumpkins must not be treated with any preservatives.

Warrener also can do bulk pickup if anyone is interested.

For more information, email .

Culinary Arts bake sale
The Land O’ Lakes Academy of Culinary Arts is offering its 11th annual Fall Bake Sale. Items up for grabs include: Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, $10; French Silk Pie, $12; Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll, $10; Kentucky Pecan Pie, $15; Vegan + GF Apple Cranberry Crisp, $14; and Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies, $10.

Order deadline is Nov. 4. Pickup is Nov. 16, Nov. 17 and Nov. 18 in the Lakeview Café.

For information and questions, email Chef Blythe at or Chef Cooper at ">.

Fall Heritage Festival
Moore-Mickens Education and Vocational Center, 38301 Martin Luther King Blvd., in Dade City, will host its third annual Fall Heritage Festival on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will include food, live music, vendors, artists, and Buffalo Soldiers. Admission is $7; $25 VIP seating (with an RSVP). For information, call 352-518-8008.

50th Anniversary
Pasco-Hernando State College will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a free commmunity West Campus Anniversary Celebration. Activities will include games and prizes, music, refreshments, and tours of the campus (fees for new student applications will be waived during the event.) To learn more, visit PHSC.edu/history.

A meaningful conversation
The Saint Leo University Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies (CCJS) will present “Why Dialogue Matters” on Nov. 10 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Congregation Schaarai Zedek, 3303 W. Swann Ave., in Tampa.

This conversation will focus on why the practice of dialogue is essential for the health of traditions, institutions and society.

Guest speakers will be Rabbi David Maayan, Cohn visiting chair in Jewish Thought and assistant director of CCJS, and Dr. Matthew Tapie, associate professor of theology and director of CCJS.

Joining in the panel wil be Friar Henry Fulmer, Sacred Heart Catholic Church; Rabbi Rachel Blatt, Congregation Kol Ami; and Rabbi Joel Simon, Congregation Schaarai Zedek.

Prior to the event, an hors d’oeuvre reception will take place at 6:15 p.m. An RSVP is required online at SaintLeo.edu/Why-Dialogue-Matters.

The program will conclude with a presentation of the 18th Eternal Light Award to Dr. Eugene Fisher for his 50 years of contributions to Catholic-Jewish relations.

Admission is free.

For information, email , or call 352-588-7298.

School Choice events
Mark your calendar with the following dates related to School Choice in Pasco County:

  • Nov. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Pasco Pathways Expo, at River Ridge High School
  • Nov. 17 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Pasco Pathways Expo, at Wesley Chapel High School
  • Jan. 9 to Jan. 20: Pasco Pathways Application Window
  • Feb. 27 to March 8: Notification and Acceptance Window

For more information, visit Pasco.k12.fl.us/schoolchoice.

Playground fundraiser
Odessa Elementary School will host a golf tournament at Cheval Golf Club, at 4312 Cheval Blvd., in Lutz, on Nov. 13. Money raised from the event will go toward expanding and improving the school’s playground, by adding structures for all ages and abilities.

Cost is $150 per person and $550 per foursome. It will be a 9 a.m. scramble start and includes contests such as a $10,000 hole-in-one chance, on-course refreshments, lunch, gifts and more.

For information or to register, visit bit.ly/wildcat-golf.

Options after high school
Education after high school does not necessarily have to be a traditional four-year college degree, according to a news release from the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA).

Two-year degrees can prepare students to continue at a four-year school, but it also can lead directly to a job in the workforce, the release said.

Diplomas and certificates in specialized skills can give students the knowledge they need to compete for good jobs in industry and other careers. These programs can take six to 18 months to complete.

Nearly all states offer grants and scholarships for in-state students, and many offer specific grants for students who want to become teachers or work in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) fields.

In many states, members of the National Guard also can take advantage of student aid programs geared to guard members.

In addition, most technical schools, two-year colleges and four-year colleges and universities offer their own grants, scholarships and other student aid programs.

Students should check with the financial aid office of the school they plan to attend, to help them understand these and other aid programs.

KHEAA is a public, nonprofit agency established to improve students’ access to college. It provides information about financial aid and financial literacy at no cost to students and parents.

To learn more about its services, visit KHEAA.com. For information about financial aid and college planning, visit ALStudentAid.com.

Pasco schools continues work to improve safety and security

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Mass shootings on school campuses — in places like Uvalde, Texas and Parkland, Florida —  highlight the need to focus on continuous improvement of safety on school campuses.

In Florida, it’s the law.

Michael Baumaister, the district’s chief of safety and emergency operations, gave a general overview of the district security plan for 2022-2023 school year during the Pasco County School Board’s Oct. 4 meeting.

Entry buzzers have been installed at schools across Pasco County. Visitors push the doorbell and are buzzed in, individually. (File)

That overview followed a private session between the board, Baumaister,and representatives of law enforcement agencies who work closely with the school district on safety and security issues.

The closed-door meeting was necessary so security professionals could brief the board on issues that must remain confidential.

But during the board meeting, Baumaister explained general steps the district is taking to continue to improve security.

He explained Florida’s law for school safety plans was adopted after 17 people were killed and 17 were injured in the 2018 Valentine’s Day shooting spree at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, in Parkland.

Those shootings spurred a public outcry and persistent student protests. Ultimately, state legislators mandated a series of new steps intended to reduce threats on campuses across Florida.

Baumaister said even before those state actions, Pasco had been seeking ways to improve safety.

Those efforts continue.

“Every year, our partners do campus tours with us. We walk through our campuses and, from there, we develop new procedures, we plan projects and then we prioritize our projects.

“The partnership we have (with law enforcement) does work. We’re fortunate in our county that we have that. Not every county experiences that. We’re very lucky,” Baumaister said.

Baumaister described some of the current efforts, including a work-order system to make minor repairs at schools, such as repairing fences and cameras.

The district also uses window security film, to harden the exterior of its schools, aimed at making it harder for intruders to penetrate.

It also has added a doorbell system, to give staff the ability to find out who is visiting and why, before allowing access.

It also has polished up its reunification and emergency operations plans, he said.

Fencing also has been added at some schools, to make them “less open access,” while retaining the appearance of the building being a school, he said.

“We also added signage. And, we’re constantly doing more communication improvements,” Baumaister said.

Completing improvements, however, required funding, he said.

The district is asking the state to continue its funding at the current level, Baumaister said.

The district also has allocated funds for school hardening efforts, from potential future Penny for Pasco revenues, if voters approve that initiative.

School board member Alison Crumbley commented on the thoroughness of the presentation the board received during its closed-door session.

She commended Baumaister’s leadership.

“We can’t, obviously, share a lot because of security reasons. But everyone in this county, parents, citizens, should be aware of the work that he has led and that the teams have put together.

“It’s mind-blowing the good things we have in place here in Pasco County,” she said.

She also noted that the Pasco school district is considered a leader regarding its partnerships with law enforcement.

The “state looks to Pasco County for guidance in a lot of areas of school security,” Crumbley said.

She also noted those leading the efforts “are continuing to do work constantly — they’re not just stopping where we are, and it’s incredible.”

Published October 19, 2022

Chalk Talk 10/19/2022

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Making up for ‘lost’ time
Pasco County Schools, after consulting with the state, has confirmed that the district will have to make up some of the lost student instructional time experienced due to Hurricane Ian, according to its Facebook page.

In an effort to preserve both the Thanksgiving and Winter Breaks, the district intends to make up the needed instructional time during Semester Two, so there are no changes to the calendar in Semester One, and the Thanksgiving and Winter Breaks will be preserved.

The make-up time will occur as follows:

  • Jan. 3 will be a regular school day for students and staff. That means students will return on Tuesday, a day early from the two-week Winter Break.
  • Feb. 20 will be a regular school day for students and teachers. Currently, it is on the calendar as a non-school day for both, and is Presidents’ Day.
  • All early release days in Semester Two will be full school days. That includes Jan. 11, Feb. 1, March 8 and April 12. By shifting those days to full school days, the district is able to make up the equivalent of two school days. Early release days in Semester One will remain unchanged.

Student achievement
Phebe Albert, of Odessa, earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, with a concentration in Joint Clinical/Neuropsychology from Georgia State University, Atlanta.

Homecoming/Family Weekend
Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo, will host its Homecoming and Family Weekend on Oct. 21 to Oct. 23.

There will be a variety of activities, including a Class of 1972 50th reunion; Spirit of Saint Leo Golf Tournament; Brews & Bites; Student Talent Show; Open Swim; Baseball/Softball/Basketball Alumni Games; Mass and Midday Prayer; Lions Rally and Family Fest; Farewell Brunch; and more.

For more information and a schedule of events, visit SaintLeo.edu, and click on the Events Calendar.

Saint Leo rankings
Saint Leo University was ranked among the best universities in the nation in the 2022-2023 U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings, according to a news release.

The university also ranked 46th in the nation in the Top Performers on Social Mobility category, and among the top universities nationally for the most international students and campus ethnic diversity.

This news is a change for Saint Leo, which was ranked among the best regional universities last year.

The school received a new classification status for 2023, which elevated it to a new rankings category among other national institutions.

For information on the Best Colleges, visit USNews.com/best-colleges.

With a long history of educating the country’s military personnel, veterans and their families, Saint Leo also claimed top honors from the 2022 Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges, a news release said.

Saint Leo earned rankings of No. 24 among all schools in the United States; No. 3 among online schools; No. 5 among private schools; and No. 7 among schools in the Southeast.

More than one-quarter of Saint Leo’s population is affiliated with the military, including members of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, National Guard members, retired military officers and enlisted veterans, military spouses, dependents and others.

For information about rankings, visit Colleges.militarytimes.com/.

Zephyrhills High reunion
The Zephyrhills High School Class of 1972 will host its 50th reunion, including:

  • Homecoming Game on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m.
  • “A Night to Remember” dinner/dance on Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the Scotland Yards Clubhouse, 9429 U.S. 301 in Dade City — $45 per person
  • Sunday Brunch, on Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a “Memory Lane Stroll” down iconic Fifth Avenue

For more information, call the school at 813-794-6100.

Culinary Arts bake sale
The Land O’ Lakes Academy of Culinary Arts is offering its 11th annual Fall Bake Sale.

Items up for grabs include: Apple Crumble Coffee Cake, $10; French Silk Pie, $12; Pumpkin Cream Cheese Roll, $10; Kentucky Pecan Pie, $15; Vegan + GF Apple Cranberry Crisp, $14; and Cream Cheese Swirl Brownies, $10.

Order deadline is Nov. 4. Pickup is Nov. 16, Nov. 17 and Nov. 18 in the Lakeview Café.

For information and questions, email Chef Blythe at or Chef Cooper at .

College essays
Some colleges require high school seniors to submit an essay as part of the admissions process, and that essay also may help when it comes to paying for college, according to the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA).

The quality and thoughtfulness of a college admissions essay can play an important part in a student’s acceptance to their preferred school.

Students should take the extra time to proofread and revise their essay several times, if necessary, and have a teacher, school counselor or parent review the essay before they submit it.

Essays help schools learn more about students by giving them a chance to set themselves apart from other applicants. The more exclusive the college, the more important the essay may be in an admissions decision.

Some schools let students submit nontraditional essays such as poems, song lyrics or videos, which allow students to display their creativity. Students should confirm with the school that nontraditional essays are accepted, before submitting one.

KHEAA is a public, nonprofit agency established in 1966 to help improve students’ access to college. It provides information about financial aid and financial literacy at no cost to students and parents.

For more about its services, visit KHEAA.com

50th Anniversary
Pasco-Hernando State College will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a free community West Campus Anniversary Celebration. Activities will include games and prizes, music, refreshments, and tours of the campus (fees for new student applications will be waived during the event.) To learn more, visit PHSC.edu/history.

Fish art contest
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with Wildlife Forever, has announced the 25th Anniversary Fish Art Contest.

The contest is designed to inspire creativity, while developing the next generation of anglers and conservationists.

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can compete in this free contest for a chance to win state and national honors, and prizes.

One first-place winner and one runner-up will be selected for each grade bracket (kindergarten through third grade; fourth through sixth grade; seventh through ninth grade; and 10th through 12th grade). There will be an award for illustrating the best freshwater fish species and one for the best saltwater fish species.

All first-place winners will advance to the National Competition to be judged for top prizes, such as Best of Show.

The deadline to enter is Feb. 28, 2023.

To enter, students from Florida should submit their entry at WildlifeForever.org.

Pasco School Board continues to push for more sidewalks

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Months are passing since school began, and Pasco County and Pasco County Schools appear to be no closer to finding a solution for a lack of county sidewalks than they were on opening day in August.

The Pasco County School Board has sent a letter to the Pasco County Commission asking the county to put a priority on getting some sidewalks built.

But as of Oct. 4, there had been no response from the county board, according to Pasco County school board member Megan Harding.

A shortage of bus drivers and insufficient state funding for transportation prompted the school district to drop “courtesy” busing for students in grades six through 12 who live within 2 miles of school.

(Mike Camunas)

That action prompted an outcry from parents who are worried about their children’s safety, as they walk to school on roads that often have no sidewalks or street lighting.

Parents have appeared at school board members expressing their concerns and describing conditions they believe are dangerous to their children.

In many cases, parents said they are not able to give their child a ride to school because they have to be at work.

A suggestion was made at one school board meeting to allow children who are walking to fill empty seats on the bus.

But Superintendent Kurt Browning said the district can’t do that because it would be inequitable to similarly situated students the district could not accommodate.

Meanwhile, the school system continues to deal with a driver shortage.

“We currently have 54 vacancies for our regular 331 routes,” Harding reported to her colleagues.

Many students are still arriving late to school and are not getting home on time, she said.

“I am worried about those students who are missing first period,” Harding added, noting she’s heard that students are being given an unexcused absence when they don’t arrive on time to get to class.

Harding said she’s discussed the problem with Betsy Kuhn, assistant superintendent for support services and it is being addressed.

School board chairwoman Cynthia Armstrong said work to provide additional sidewalks can begin soon.

“We’re seeing a lot of complaints with parents, having 11-year-olds, not having safe walking (conditions),” Armstrong said.

On another issue, the school board agreed with a plan to provide 2.37 acres of right of way in conjunction with a new townhome project across from Woodland Elementary School in Zephyrhills. As part of the project, the development is required to make improvement to Henry Drive, which runs along the south side of Woodland Elementary and Zephyrhills High.

In exchange, district staff has negotiated that a crosswalk, with pedestrian flashing beacons, be installed along Henry Drive at a location to be determined in the future.

The improvement will be made when the City of Zephyrhills develops its park site, adjacent to Woodland Elementary, which is expected soon.

In other action, the school board has selected the Williams Company, of Tampa, to be the  construction management firm to oversee the construction of a new classroom building at Starkey Ranch K8 School, in Odessa.

The preconstruction services component is established as a fixed fee in the amount of $39,659.52. In addition to these base services, there is an additional $2,000 in not-to-exceed allowances.

The guaranteed maximum price proposal for the project will be presented to the school board at a later date.

Published October 12, 2022

School board members share joy over Kirkland opening

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During board member comments at the Oct. 4 Pasco County School Board meeting, Allen Altman expressed his appreciation for the dedication ceremony held last month at Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation.

School board member Allen Altman said this photo of Kirkland Academy of Innovation, at 9100 Curley Road, in Wesley Chapel, perfectly captures the nature of the special celebration to dedicate the new high school. The school is designed to prepare students in an array of current and emerging technical and career fields. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

The new high school, at 9100 Curley Road, in Wesley Chapel, has an emphasis on preparing students for a wide range of technical careers, in both current and emerging fields.

Altman, who is retiring from the board, has persistently pushed to increase opportunities for students living on the east side of Pasco County, which for years lagged in programming options behind other parts of the county.

Altman asked that a photo taken during the evening be shared with those attending or viewing the board’s meeting.

He praised Andy Dunn, a multimedia specialist for the district, for the excellent quality of the photograph.

“I thought this was an artist’s rendering when I first saw it, but it is an actual photograph,” said Altman, referring to a photo showing the school set against a stunning sky.

The school board member said the photo aptly recorded the special nature of the celebration.

“It was a tremendous night. The weather could not have been any more spectacular. Great turnout. Room was full.

“Everything was wonderful.

“We had some business partners that were there, that were in the tours, that have already reached out to us about participating and partnering in some other programs.

“So, it was well-received and very well done.

“So many students that were there that we heard just tremendous stories from, and what their intentions are and how motivated they are,” Altman said. “I’m really, really, really excited about this.”

School board member Allison Crumbley, who attended the dedication ceremony as well, said that Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation “is  such a beacon for the future for so many students.

“The school is beautiful.

“It’s truly a gem in our school district,” said Crumbley, adding that like Altman, she’s excited about what this school will do to support students’ futures.

Published October 12, 2022

Chalk Talk 10/12/2022

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(Courtesy of Vanessa White, Mass Communications Specialist 2nd Class)

Zephyrhills native builds on Seabees 80-year legacy
Since 1942, sailors assigned to the U.S. Navy’s Construction Force have been building and fighting around the world. Construction worker Isaiah Mosley, a Zephyrhills native, is one of those sailors. Eighty years ago, members of Navy Construction Battalions were fittingly nicknamed ‘Seabees,’ a play on the C and B initials. They are responsible for building military bases and airfields, supporting humanitarian efforts and conducting underwater construction projects. Mosley, a 2018 graduate of the James Irwin Education Center, currently serves with Naval Mobile Construction Battalion One at the headquarters for naval construction forces in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Saint Leo alumnus to speak
Saint Leo University’s “Mission-Driven Leaders: Conversations on Purpose” program will return on Oct. 14 at 9:30 a.m., at 33701 State Road 52, in the Greenfelder-Denlinger Boardrooms, in the Student Community Center, in St. Leo, as well as via Zoom.

The guest speaker will be alumnus Colin Bryant, sports executive, on the topice of preparing NBA players for life on and off the court.

Registration is required to attend, for both in-person and Zoom, online at Calendar.saintleo.edu/event.

Poster/bookmark contests
The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with its annual Poster and Bookmark Contests for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

The art contests are a way for kids and teens to celebrate the culture and traditions of Hispanic Americans reflected throughout the community.

The contests are open to elementary, middle and high school students, and prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade can design a bookmark using crayons, markers, colored pencils or paint.

High school students can participate in the poster contest that celebrates Hillsborough’s Hispanic heritage. The poster must be 8 ½ inches by 11 inches.

Participants can scan and submit their finished artwork electronically, via email, to , or drop it off at any public library through Oct. 15, by 5 p.m.

Winners will receive prizes including art supply packages and the opportunity to have their creation professionally printed.

For inspiration, students can view last year’s winning bookmarks and posters at HCPLC.org/events/hispanic-heritage-winners-2021.

Imagine School fundraiser
Trinity Outback Steakhouse, 10860 State Road 54 in Trinity, will host a Give Back Event on Oct. 19 starting at 5 p.m.

Fifteen percent of a diner’s total check will go to support Imagine School of Land O’ Lakes.

For information and to get a flyer to present when dining, call 813-428-7444.

Master’s degree info session
Saint Leo University will host an information session on its Master of Business Administration degree program on Oct. 19 at 6 p.m., via Zoom.

Those interested in gaining a competitive edge, developing a deeper skill set and understanding of business functions, and making an impact in their business, organization and community, are invited to attend.

The MBA program is offered online and on campus with classes available during the day and evening, weekdays and weekends. Students can complete the degree by earning 33 credits in 12 calendar months.

To register for the event, visit Calendar.saintleo.edu/tcob/event.

Taste of India
Carrollwood Day School, 1515 W. Bearss Ave., in Tampa, invites the community to its Indian Culture Club’s “Taste of India 2022” on Oct. 21.

There will be a bazaar and dinner in the Student Union from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by student performances and entertainment. Dinner seating is limited. The cost is $25 per person.

For information and to register (by Oct. 14), visit https://www.events.org/cPage.aspx?e=142291.

Homecoming/Family Weekend
Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo, will host its Homecoming and Family Weekend on Oct. 21 to Oct. 23.

There will be a variety of activities, including a Class of 1972 50th reunion; Spirit of Saint Leo Golf Tournament; Brews & Bites; Student Talent Show; Open Swim; Baseball/Softball/Basketball Alumni Games; Mass and Midday Prayer; Lions Rally and Family Fest; Farewell Brunch; and more.

For more information and a schedule of events, visit SaintLeo.edu, and click on the Events Calendar.

Zephyrhills High reunion
The Zephyrhills High School Class of 1972 will host its 50th reunion, including:

  • Homecoming Game, on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m.
  • “A Night to Remember” dinner/dance on Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the Scotland Yards Clubhouse, 9429 U.S. 301 in Dade City — $45 per person
  • Sunday Brunch, on Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., followed by a “Memory Lane Stroll” down iconic Fifth Avenue

For more information, call the school at 813-794-6100.

50th Anniversary
Pasco-Hernando State College will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Nov. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a free commmunity West Campus Anniversary Celebration.

Activities will include games and prizes, music, refreshments, and tours of the campus (fees for new student applications will be waived during the event.)

To learn more, visit PHSC.edu/history.

Fish art contest
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), in partnership with Wildlife Forever, has announced the 25th Anniversary Fish Art Contest.

The contest is designed to inspire creativity, while developing the next generation of anglers and conservationists.

Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can compete in this free contest for a chance to win state and national honors, and prizes.

One first-place winner and one runner-up will be selected for each grade bracket (kindergarten through third grade; fourth through sixth grade; seventh through ninth grade; and 10th through 12th grade). There will be an award for illustrating the best freshwater fish species and one for the best saltwater fish species.

All first-place winners will advance to the National Competition to be judged for top prizes, such as Best of Show.

The deadline to enter is Feb. 28, 2023.

To enter, students from Florida should submit their entry at WildlifeForever.org.

Early release dates for Pasco
Pasco County Schools is utilizing a monthly, two-hour early release time again this year, to allow for staff to engage in professional development aligned with student needs, and district and school priorities, according to a news release.

Scheduled early release days for the 2022-2023 school year are: Nov. 2, Dec. 7, Jan. 11, Feb. 1, March 8 and April 12.

On each of these days, students will be release two hours early. The bell times and early release times for each school, can be found at Pasco.k12.fl.us/site/pcs_bell_schedule.

Chalk Talk 10/05/2022

By

(Courtesy of Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce)

Citizens of the Month honored
The East Pasco Chamber Foundation in partnership with the Greater Zehyrhills Chamber of Commerce recognized 10 students as the Greater Zephyrhills Student Citizens of the Month (September). Students are chosen by the teachers and administration of their individual schools for exemplary effort, achievement, and contribution to their school, family and community. These students received the honor: Adam ‘AJ’ Byro Jr., Academy of Spectrum Diversity; Nickolas Kluge, Chester Taylor Elementary School; Brantley Raza, Heritage Academy; Kimberly Zurita, Stewart Middle; Ethan West and Rebekah Santiago, The Broach School; Lilly Saunders, West Zephyrhills Elementary; Abdiel Ruziga, Woodland Elementary; Arya Thurston, Zephyrhills Christian Academy; and Alyssa Rojas, Zephyrhills High.

ABC program supported
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices collected funds and distributed checks to five schools identified as high need for their respective ABC (Assist, Believe & Care) Programs.

The programs were created to provide financial assistance to students and their families who are experiencing economic hardship, especially when those needs interfere with the student’s ability to be academically successful.

The cash donated goes into a fund that teachers can use when they see or learn of a need a child may have.

Managers and staff from all tax office locations in Pasco County delivered a $1,000 check to each of these schools: Rodney B. Cox Elementary, West Zephyrhills Elementary, Denham Oaks Elementary, Chasco Elementary and Sunray Elementary, according to a news release.

“Life in general, the uncertainty that COVID brought to so many families and other factors have put economic pressure on many Pasco residents,” said Fasano in the release.

“The strain can be enormous, especially when a parent loses a job, or a single parent is struggling to raise children while doing all they can to make ends meet. Children without food, adequate clothing or other unmet needs often suffer academically….The assistance provided helps students get back on track and stay on track,” said Fasano.

Financial aid deadlines
Students should keep a close eye on deadlines when applying for student financial aid, according to a KHEAA (Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority) news release.

Every scholarship or grant a student receives can reduce their dependence on student loans.

Here are some helpful tips from KHEAA, according to the release:

  • File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible, beginning Oct. 1. The FAFSA submission must be completed to qualify for most state and federal student aid.
  • Check with the financial aid offices of the schools applied to, to determine if they require any forms other than FAFSA.
  • Look for scholarships using a free online scholarship search.
  • Attend college fairs and financial aid seminars offered. If a company charges a fee for helping with applications, remember that a student can do it themselves, for free. If paying for help, make sure the company is reputable by checking with the attorney general’s office or the Better Business Bureau in your area, as well as the area where the firm is located.

KHEAA is a public, nonprofit agency established to improve students’ access to college. It provides information about financial aid and financial literacy, at no cost to students and parents.

For more about the services, visit KHEAA.com.

Student achievement
Aaron Hatrick, of Zephyrhills, earned a Doctor of Philosophy, English, from Baylor University, Waco, Texas, during summer commencement ceremonies.

Early release dates for Pasco
Pasco County Schools is utilizing a monthly, two-hour early release time again this year, to allow for staff to engage in professional development aligned with student needs, and district and school priorities, according to a news release.

Scheduled early release days for the 2022-2023 school year are: Oct. 5, Nov. 2, Dec. 7, Jan. 11, Feb. 1, March 8 and April 12.

On each of these days, students will be release two hours early. The bell times and early release times for each school, can be found at Pasco.k12.fl.us/site/pcs_bell_schedule.

Poster/bookmark contests
The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with its annual Poster and Bookmark Contests for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

The art contests are a way for kids and teens to celebrate the culture and traditions of Hispanic Americans reflected throughout the community.

The contests are open to elementary, middle and high school students, and prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade can design a bookmark using crayons, markers, colored pencils or paint.

High school students can participate in the poster contest that celebrates Hillsborough’s Hispanic heritage. The poster must be 8 ½ inches by 11 inches.

Participants can scan and submit their finished artwork electronically, via email, to , or drop it off at any public library through Oct. 15, by 5 p.m.

Winners will receive prizes including art supply packages and the opportunity to have their creation professionally printed.

For inspiration, students can view last year’s winning bookmarks and posters at HCPLC.org/events/hispanic-heritage-winners-2021.

Chalk Talk 09/28/2022

By

(Courtesy of Laurie Roberts)

Local student named rodeo queen
Hannah Forkum, 16, is a junior at Land O’ Lakes High School, and the daughter of Jennifer Roberts, of Land O’ Lakes. Forkum competes in breakaway roping, goat tying, barrel racing, and pole bending, and recently was crowned 2022 Miss Florida High School Rodeo (Queen). She also is an active member of the FFA (Future Farmers of America) and 4-H where she shows hogs and cattle. When she is not at a rodeo, Forkum enjoys working with horses, showing livestock, and spending time with her family and friends.

Speaker series
Saint Leo University is now a preferred provider to RGA (Revenue Generating Activities) Network, a group of networking organizations that supports small businesses, entrepreneurs, start-ups, and salesmen and saleswomen. The network meets in locations throughout Central Florida.

Through the RGA preferred-provider agreement with Saint Leo, members now will receive a 10% tuition discount, according to a news release. And Saint Leo students, alumni, staff and faculty are offered RGA Network membership discounts, as well.

As members, students will have access to mentoring from RGA industry experts.

In addition, the Tampa Education Center, 1403 N. Howard Ave., in Tampa, will host an RGA Speaks-Speaker Series, similar to a TED-talk with industry experts, career advice, and more.

The next session is Sept. 29 at 6 p.m., on the topic of “Notepad to Launchpad!” featuring a 90-day sprint framework, discussion of shifting into motion, and how to adapt and overcome problems.

Other upcoming sessions are scheduled for Oct. 27 and Dec. 1.

The network group has meetings each week, including at 11:30 a.m., on Fridays, at Green Door on 8th, 14148 Eighth St., in Dade City.

For more information, contact Tiffany Anderson at or 813-226-2778.

Job Fair
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) and CareerSource Pasco Hernando will host a free Job Fair on Sept. 29 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the PHSC West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey, in R-151.

For questions, email Jackie Eden at or Nathan Stevens at .

Scholarship semifinalists
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has announced the names of 16,000 semifinalists in the 68th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

The students have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,250 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $28 million that will be offered next spring, according to a news release.

About 95% of the semifinalists are expected to attain finalist standing, and approximately half of the finalists will win a scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar title.

The high school students from The Laker/Lutz News area that were recognized are:

  • Salpriya Gande and Saneyah Khan, of Academy at the Lakes
  • Anastasia Bogdatova, of Cypress Creek High School
  • Jessica Afiat and Britney Pun, of Freedom High
  • Liam Ballard, Sara Fernandez and Olivia West, of Gaither High
  • Thehan Atalugama, Hannah Beatty, Andrew Domonkos, Sarvesh Gade, Allen Ho, Rishabh Kanodia and Andria Wang, of Land O’ Lakes High
  • Kartikeye Gupta, Louis Li and Andrew Maroun, of Steinbrenner High
  • Jenna Ly, of Wesley Chapel High
  • Diganto Ray-Sarkar, of Wiregrass Ranch High

National Merit Scholarship winners of 2023 will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July.

Poster/bookmark contests
The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with its annual Poster and Bookmark Contests for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

The art contests are a way for kids and teens to celebrate the culture and traditions of Hispanic Americans reflected throughout the community.

The contests are open to elementary, middle and high school students, and prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Students in kindergarten through eighth grade can design a bookmark using crayons, markers, colored pencils or paint.

High school students can participate in the poster contest that celebrates Hillsborough’s Hispanic heritage. The poster must be 8 ½ inches by 11 inches.

Participants can scan and submit their finished artwork electronically, via email, to , or drop it off at any public library through Oct. 15, by 5 p.m.

Winners will receive prizes including art supply packages and the opportunity to have their creation professionally printed.

For inspiration, students can view last year’s winning bookmarks and posters at HCPLC.org/events/hispanic-heritage-winners-2021.